Moscow is often pictured as cold and dark, with snow falling on a few hardy souls walking the squares, an image that conjures up little in the way of exciting nightlife. Today, there’s plenty to do in Moscow after 5. The challenge is choosing from more than 5,000 destinations offering everything from traditional Russian fare to haute cuisine from a Michelin-starred chef to all-night dance clubs.

If you’re looking for a great steak, Chicago Prime Steakhouse serves USDA Prime American beef, or further your education at the Beefbar while enjoying a stunning view of the Moscow River and skyline. Speaking of views, consider visiting the Sky Lounge, and then move on to dinner at the famous Nobu for Asian fare at its best. Just above in the same upscale retail building is the Rose Bar, a popular night spot and dance club.

Diners searching for the style and classic food of imperial Russia will find it at the famous Café Pushkin by Andrey Dellos. For those seeking luxury, Soho Rooms remains one of the most posh clubs in the capital, with gourmet dining and a rooftop pool and terrace.

Locals and travelers alike look forward to the opening of Mojito rooftop bar and restaurant atop the Hotel Nikol’skaya Kempinski Moscow. Opening in late 2013, Mojito will feature dazzling views of the historic heart of the city.

Often compared to London’s Docklands entertainment area, Red October is a former chocolate factory on an island across from the Kremlin. The Red is exploding with nightlife, dining, music, galleries and clubs. The Russians have also built one of the hottest restaurants and bars in the capital city, Strelka, inside a center of advanced study, a “stock exchange for human capital.”

For late-night clubbing, many consider Bar Gipsy to be Moscow’s top club with its expansive open terrace and great music. Jagger Bar and Manon are hot spots located close to each other for easy clubhopping. For jazz lovers, Igor Butman Club in the heart of downtown Moscow is tops for live entertainment and excellent food.

New for Moscow is its only non-smoking bar, the cozy Belka Bar, which features live music. The action goes on well after 4 a.m. at the luxurious Krysha Mira (Roof of the World) for late partiers. LGBT visitors to the capital find dance action at 12 Volt, the huge music venue Tri Obezyani or Body and Soul. Tsifri offers a more intimate café atmosphere.

“It is best to speak with the concierge at your hotel when planning a night out because clubs change often,” says Pavel Nikolaev, chief concierge of the Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow. Nikolaev recommends arranging for a hotel-provided car and English-speaking driver: “Thus you will be assured of a fun and problem-free evening in the capital.”